Good luck! When the starting gun goes off, try to hold back for the first few miles before settling into your goal race pace. You can use the energy you save early to surge in the final miles.

Be sure to walk and stretch immediately after you finish to reduce soreness and stiffness in the days to come. Afterward, ice your legs and put your feet up. Have a snack with a carbs-to-protein ratio of 4:1 as soon as possible after you cross the finish line.

Be sure to celebrate your big accomplishment!

Thank you for training with Runner's World. Check out our training plans for 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and the postseason.